Newcastle United and Aston Villa are reportedly competing to bring Christopher Nkunku back to the Premier League, with AC Milan setting a starting price of €35m for the French attacker.
Nkunku is heading towards the exit at San Siro only a year after joining Milan from Chelsea, with new manager Ruben Amorim not planning to include the 28-year-old in his squad.
According to Daniele Longo of Calciomercato, both Newcastle and Villa have already made enquiries, speaking with Nkunku's representatives as well as holding initial discussions with Milan.
Newcastle and Aston Villa make Nkunku enquiries
Milan are reportedly prepared to sell Nkunku for a minimum of €35m, although the Serie A club would ideally like to receive a higher fee.
The Premier League pair are not alone in pursuing him. RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund and Roma are also credited with interest, potentially creating significant competition before the transfer window closes.
Nkunku joined Milan in the summer of 2025 after leaving Chelsea, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic playing an important role in taking him to Italy.
The move has not developed as hoped.
Nkunku scored seven Serie A goals last season while playing around 1,300 minutes under Max Allegri. Amorim's subsequent arrival has created further uncertainty around his position.
Why Milan are prepared to sell Nkunku
Amorim reportedly appreciates Nkunku's technical qualities but has doubts about whether the forward possesses the physical attributes required for his high-pressing system.
Nkunku is now said to be training separately from Milan's first-team squad, providing another indication that a transfer is being sought.
His fitness record could be an important consideration for Newcastle and Villa after the injury problems that disrupted his spell at Chelsea.
Despite those concerns, his versatility and previous Premier League experience could make him an attractive attacking option if Milan's valuation becomes achievable.
Newcastle and Aston Villa are already competing in the market for Joao Palhinha, meaning Nkunku could now become another player at the centre of a transfer battle between the two clubs.
Key Points
- Newcastle and Aston Villa have made enquiries for Nkunku.
- Both clubs have contacted his entourage and held initial talks with Milan.
- Milan have set a starting valuation of €35m.
- Nkunku is reportedly not part of Ruben Amorim's plans.
- RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund and Roma are also interested.
- The Frenchman is currently training separately from Milan's first team.
What's Next?
Newcastle and Villa must decide whether to turn their initial enquiries into formal offers, with Milan open to allowing Nkunku to leave.
Competition from Germany and Italy could accelerate negotiations, but Milan's €35m valuation and Nkunku's recent fitness record will be important factors for any club considering a permanent deal.
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